How hard would a DIY transmitter be

[lorenjz]

I've been fascinated by people coming up with their own ground station/transmitter. Is it possible to load opentx onto a arduino mega? I have to think that it's a little more involved than hooking a couple of gimbals and switches up, or am I wrong?

thanks for the input,

Loren

[rperkins]

there is also the RF TX stage. Some clubs and/or countries are picky about having a FCC or other certification on the RF TX module. I believe that is why HK sells a lot of TX's without an RF stage.

[lorenjz]

That's a good point that I hadn't thought of. Would using something like a frsky DJT satisfy most clubs concerns?

[rperkins]

I would think so but I am just guessing.

What would your goal be ? I dont think a custom implementation would be cost effective but you could probably get a lot of options.

[ShowMaster]

I don't think most clubs know what can and can't be done on the RC ham bands as long as your licensed. Tx power could be challenged but no one will have the equipment to check it and without a license they can't turn it on. I used to fly on 10 meters as well as 53 and 50 MHz. Not as much gear around as there was but it's an option if you have a club that's picky about your radio. What you do is sneak a DJT in the case and just fake the ham band operation. As long as they see the black flag and long antenna they'll think they're in control. Ok, Shame on me.
Use the same brand tx case as the president of the club and you'll be better off yet.

[lorenjz]

What would your goal be ? I dont think a custom implementation would be cost effective but you could probably get a lot of options.

I think that I have a thought or two (not very well thought out though)...



The main "block looking thing" would look like a standard tx. I tend to like the feel and ergonomics of a standard transmitter. The screen would be controlled by a mini computer like a raspberry pi or something similar and would display any pertinant flight information. The six buttons under the screen would each have a display to show the function of each. During flight they would toggle different flight modes. The could also be used for radio configuration like selecting models.


Thoughts?

Loren

[rperkins]

I like it.
The screens would need to be visible in full sunlight, no ?
My current cellphine is very dim in full sunlight.
Oh , and have a 'tray' version available for 'you know who'

[jhsa]

And don't forget the switches on top of the sticks.. If you could fit 2 on each stick even better..

Randy, that's it, I think we just earned a good slap in the face..

[rperkins]

Would those be 'thumb switches ' ??

[jhsa]

[rperkins]

Dont be mad now. We luv you . XOXOXOXOXOXOXX

[Daedalus66]

What is it you intend to control?

Do you intend to look a the screen during operation? That doesn't work if you are flying or driving something. You need voice feedback.

Or is the screen just for programming?

[bertrand35]

Somebody here in France does the same thing. I added a MEGA2560 target to openTX for him.